Sisterlocks vs. Microlocs: What’s the Difference?

If you have been looking at small locs, you have probably seen the words Sisterlocks and microlocs used as if they mean the same thing. They are close cousins, but they are not the same, and the difference matters for your budget, your schedule and how your locs will look in five years.

The short answer

• Sisterlocks is one specific, trademarked method. Locs are created with a special tool and a precise grid of parts, and they are usually very small and very uniform.
• Microlocs is the general name for small locs. They can be started with interlocking, two-strand twists, braids or coils, and the size and parting can vary.

Every Sisterlock is a small loc, but not every small loc is a Sisterlock.

How they are started

Sisterlocks are installed by interlocking each section with a dedicated tool, following a set grid pattern. The method is taught through a formal training program, and the size of the grid is chosen at the start based on your hair.

Microlocs can be started several ways:

• Interlocking with a tool (similar to Sisterlocks, but without the trademarked system).
• Small two-strand twists or braids that are left to lock over time.
• Comb coils on shorter hair.

Because there is more than one way to start microlocs, a good consultation matters. The right method depends on your texture, length and how much maintenance you want.

Size and number of locs

Sisterlocks are usually the smallest option, often several hundred locs on a full head. Microlocs are typically a little larger, though there is overlap. Smaller locs mean more styling freedom, but also longer installs and longer maintenance appointments.

Installation time and cost

Both are long installs. A full Sisterlocks install often takes 8–12 hours or more and is usually split into two sessions. Microlocs can be faster, depending on the method and size.

Cost follows time. Sisterlocks installs usually cost more because of the time involved and the specialized training. Microlocs give you more flexibility to match size and method to your budget. See how much Sisterlocks cost for the details that move the price up or down.

Maintenance

Both need regular retightening, usually every 4–6 weeks, to keep the roots neat. At My Natural Hair Spa:

• A Sisterlocks retie starts at $200 and takes about 5 hours, shampoo included.
• A microloc retie starts at $200 and takes about 4 hours, shampoo included.

Skipping reties does not save money in the long run. New growth tangles, the next retie takes longer, and weak spots can form at the root.

Which one should you choose?

Choose Sisterlocks if you want the smallest, most uniform locs possible and are ready for a longer install and regular reties.

Choose microlocs if you want small, versatile locs with more choice in size and method, or a slightly shorter install.

Either way, your hair's texture, density and health make the final call. That is why we start every new install with a $30 consultation, where we look at your hair, recommend a technique and size, go over price and timing, and pick your install date. Here is what happens at a loc consultation.

Small locs in Gaithersburg

We care for both Sisterlocks and microlocs at our salon on Muddy Branch Road in Gaithersburg. Learn more about our Sisterlocks services and microloc services, or book a consultation.